Demonstrations and donations for Senior Nutrition during Dec. 13 Open House

Celebrating its 5th Open House & Holiday Food Drive on December 13, the Mount Shasta Martial Arts Program demonstrated martial arts at a variety of levels and ages.

“The participants worked extremely hard for the past two weeks preparing for the demo and collecting raffle prizes,” said MSMAP head instructor Chuck Buhs. “They were outstanding in making a complicated martial arts demonstration look easy.”

A special highlight was six-year-old Justin leading his sister, Jessica, 5, and his father, Tim, in demonstrating the first form. When finished, Justin shared a subtle smile with the spectators.

“Little Justin did such an amazing job being honcho with just his family — very precious!”, observed Ailita Saryon. “I had the impression many people were touched by that little guy.”

“It was precious and rare,” said his mother, Rhonda. “The kind of smile you could tell he felt deep inside. I feel like that was a moment that altered his character with a nudge towards the positive and the strength of what he has inside him. Every tiny positive piece of self-confidence given to, or more importantly earned by, a child his age is a gift.”

Vitaliy Tveritin, 11, was one of the demonstration team leaders.

“There’s some pressure leading the other kids,” said Vitaliy who is looking forward to his black belt exam. “It’s fun and kind of hard because there’s a lot of laughing, so it’s not easy keeping everyone’s attention. But it’s really cool to have an open house and donate food to the seniors.”

The annual raffle drawing included prizes from 30 local businesses and individuals.

“We are extremely grateful to the support of the Mount Shasta business community for their generous support,” said Buhs. “Their contributions led directly to donations of nearly 20 grocery bags of food for the Senior Nutrition Program — the most food ever collected for this event.”

“Once again the students of the Mount Shasta Martial Arts Program have come thru for our seniors,” said Mount Shasta Recreation & Parks District Administrator Mike Rodriguez. “Our seniors need extra help with so many daily needs and I’m sure these extra groceries will be received with great appreciation!”

In addition to the martial arts demonstrations, raffle drawings, and food drive, several individuals were recognized for their contributions throughout the year towards the success of the program including Vitaliy, Blake Hanson, Chris Schrievers, and Aurora Coulter.

Elina and Emmanuel Saryon received “Special Recognition” and “Special Appreciation” awards, respectively. Elina, 15, volunteers as an instructional assistant for the Tiny Tigers program and single-handedly organized a free lunchtime activity session at the Mount Shasta Elementary School last May.

Emmanuel, 11, was recognized for his leadership and participation during regular training sessions, special events such as a team leader for this open house, and fundraising activities. Both siblings also successfully competed in the UC Open Taekwondo Championships last April.

“Our continued success is dependent upon the efforts of these and many other individuals and families,” said Buhs. “We feel very privileged to share our enthusiasm for pursuing a healthy, positive lifestyle in this community and honored that people are interested.”

“MSMAP has made a huge difference in this community, not only for the kids but the adults as well,” said Robin Weaver. “I am so happy to have a positive instructor with specific expectations available for both of my very different children. As a frequent spectator during the past year, I am often struck by the swift changes that occur in each student. So many kids from exceedingly diverse lifestyles and households meet together on the mat and practice not only martial arts, but also respect, cooperation and tolerance. Both my kids enjoy the challenges put forth in each class as well as preparing for demonstrations like this one. Collecting food for the Senior Nutrition Program allows my children to practice their stewardship and feel like intrinsic parts of the South County community.”

Senior Nutrition Program
The Recreation and Parks District is the official provider for the senior meal program thru a contract with the California Department of Aging and Planning and Service Area 2 - Agency on Aging. Year-round donations of food and money for the Senior Nutrition Program can be made by calling 926-2494.

“Since 1974, there has been a hot lunch program for senior citizens at the City Park Recreation Center...55+ meals are delivered to homebound seniors in the South County (Home Delivered Meals). Transportation to and from the Mt. Shasta lunch site is also available...The Senior Nutrition Program strives to not only meet the nutritional needs of its senior participants, but also recognizes the importance of socialization and life enrichment. Informational programs, special events, and other activities are a regular component of the senior lunch program schedule.”

MSMAP's Open House
Each December, MSMAP hosts an Open House & Holiday Food Drive to celebrate the holidays with a unique, martial arts-based event of action, prizes, and food donations. First held in 2008, it is a chance for participants to display their growing skills and help those in need.